A HISTORY OF ELECTRICITY IN IDAH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, 1979-2024

ABSTRACT This study examines the History of Electricity in Idah Local Government Area, 1979 – 2024. It traces the establishment of electricity supply in the area, beginning with the absence of modern power infiastructure before 1979 and culminating in the transformation of energy distribution through federal policies, institutional reforms, and local stakeholder efforts. The research adopts historical research methodology. Primary and secondary sources of history were utilized. The primary sources include oral interview while the secondary sources includes books, journals articles, internet sources and unpublished documents. The research explores how the introduction of electricity reshaped Idah's economic activities, educational institutions, healthcare services, religious life, and political participation. The work also analyzes the administrative structure and operational modes of the electricity sector in Idah under both the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) and the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), highlighting the persistent challenges such ảs infrastructural decay, estimated billing, electricity theft, and irregular supply. The study concludes that while electricity has significantly improved the standard of living and promoted modernization in Idah, unresolved structural issues continue to limit its effectiveness. It calls for renewed investment, policy reform, and grassroots participation to ensure sustainable and equitable energy access in the region.